Formulation and Characterization of Waterborne Paints from the Blends of Natural Rubber (NR) Latex and Polyvinyl Acetate (PVAC) Emulsion

Natural rubber (NR) latex and polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) emulsion were blended into various compositions as follows: NR/PVAc (0/100; 25/75; 40/60; 50/50; 60/40; 75/25; 100/0). The resulting blends were used as binders in the formulation of waterborne paints which were then characterized for some physical properties such as total solids contents (TSCs), pH, viscosity, opacity, antifungal index, and water-repellency. From the results, the formulation based on binder composition, 25/75 (NR/PVAc) tends to demonstrate unique property profile that is favourable for waterborne paints. The resulting paint is suitable for both interior and exterior wall protection. The presence of natural rubber in the binder composition improves the water resistance and fluidity of the paint while PVAc simultaneously imparts the films’ strength.